Howard Hawks creates an intriguing backdrop for his plot. As the city falls into the control of the underworld, even wealthy aristocrats like the Sternwoods are directly affected. Although the police are trying to put an end to the crime, they seem to have little success in controlling the mobsters. We see this dirty side of the city through Marlowe's eyes as he discovers Geiger's bookstore, a front for the gambling ring, and many other unsavory people and situations.

The sets for the film are excellent. From Marlowe's stereotypically shady office, to the Sternwood mansion, to Eddie's gambling house, we never fail to believe that the situations portrayed could really occur in these locations. Even Geiger's house is appropriately excluded from a more populated area so that the shots being fired are not heard by neighbors.

The actors in the film help create characters...